Episode Show Notes
In this episode, we welcome missionary Bounkeo Lor, who serves as a missionary in the WELS and as the president of the Hmong Fellowship Church in Vietnam. A fourth-generation Christian leader, Boun shares his powerful story of how the distinction between Law and Gospel transformed his understanding of faith and led him to gospel ministry.
Boun explains that he initially resisted becoming a pastor because he saw how hard his father and grandfather worked, serving 24/7. He pursued a medical degree but was moved to ministry after hearing a message on Law and Gospel. Growing up in a somewhat legalistic Christian environment, he was taught that good works and strict adherence to rules were the path to heaven. When he realized that salvation is by grace alone through the blood of Christ, it changed his heart and mindset.
Boun explains that many in the Hmong community and other Asian cultures struggle with a similar legalistic mindset due to their cultural background, which emphasizes respect for elders and doing good to have a good afterlife. He stresses that while the first generation of believers may find it difficult to fully escape this cultural influence, training younger generations can help cultivate a purer faith rooted in the Gospel. He advises young missionaries to understand the culture and "put your feet into their shoes" to effectively lead them.
The conversation also explores Boun's leadership style, which is rooted in honesty and care. He builds trust by following through on his promises and by treating his fellow leaders like family, staying in the same hotels and eating the same food as them. A key part of his approach is the concept of "letting leaders sit inside your heart". This involves observing and understanding the struggles of fellow pastors—like their children being sick or not having enough food—and serving them so they feel encouraged and supported.
Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag
WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)
WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)
BWM = WELS Board for World Missions
CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system
Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.
Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary
All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.
